Starlings

Sturnidae

Sevenspecies are present in Australia. The native Metallic Starling Aplonis metallica and the Singing Starling Aplonis cantoroides both have wider distributions, the Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris and Common Myna Acridotheres tristis are introduced and the Rosy Starling Pastor roseus, Purple-backed Starling Agropsar sturninus and Chestnut-cheeked Starling Agropsar philippensis are vagrants. The Tasman Starling Aplonis fusca, a former endemic of NI and LHI, is now extinct. All have straight, pointed bills and strong legs.

The European Starling was introduced into Australia in the late 1850’s. It originated from Europe, where it was once a common bird of the deciduous woodlands, but now favours the more urban areas. In Australia it has also become a familiar sight around human habitation throughout the east and south-east. It is also a prominent bird in open cultivated areas, and is a well-known pest of orchards. Other...